Women who have gotten breast implants should never have to worry about whether the implant will cause them harm. These medical devices should be safe. Unfortunately, we now know that textured breast implants, particularly those manufactured by Allergan, can lead to cancer. Here, the award-winning team from Colson Hicks Eidson wants to discuss breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma, or BIA-ALCL. We are currently taking cases of those harmed due to breast implants in Florida and throughout the United States.
What Is BIA-ALCL?
We need to say emphatically that BIA-ALCL is not breast cancer, even though it typically forms near the breasts. In most cases, this type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is found in the scar tissue and fluid near the breast implant. However, in some cases, it can spread throughout the entire body.
The main symptoms of BIA-ALCL include:
- Persistent swelling
- Presences of a mass near the breast implant
- Pain in the area of the breast implant
The FDA says that these symptoms may occur well after the woman has healed from the initial implant surgery, often years after placement. Studies have indicated that symptoms develop around eight to 10 years after surgery, but one woman was diagnosed 32 years after her initial breast implants.
While the FDA considers this cancer rare, it is serious and can lead to death. BIA-ALCL needs to be treated promptly. In most cases, patients make a full recovery with surgery to remove the implant and the affected scar tissue. Some patients do require chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Many Of These Women Are Already Cancer Survivors
Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma simply sounds scary. All cancers are scary, but BIA-ALCL is particularly dreadful because many of the women who are diagnosed with this cancer have already beaten cancer before.
Many women who have undergone treatment for breast cancer have their breasts removed and replace them with implants like Allergan’s. This is a vital part of the process for women recovering from cancer and moving forward with their lives. To discover that the implants that were supposed to help them feel normal again may cause them cancer is incredibly demoralizing.
We Are Ready To Help You Through This
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with BIA-ALCL due to textured breast implants, you should contact a skilled Allergan textured breast implant attorney today. At Colson Hicks Eidson, we have the experience you need to gain maximum compensation for what has happened. Our nationally recognized firm will work to secure:
- Compensation for all medical expenses related to BIA-ALCL or breast implant removal
- Recovery of lost wages if you cannot work while you recover
- Pain and suffering damages
- Loss of enjoyment of life damages
- Possible punitive damages against the breast implant manufacturer
We are currently taking Allergan textured breast implant cases throughout Florida and the United States. You can contact us for a free consultation by clicking here or by calling us at 305-476-7443.
